Martin Hilbert pursues a multidisciplinary approach to understanding the role of digitalization in the development of complex social systems. Before joining UC Davis, he created and coordinated the Information Society Programme of United Nations Regional Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (http://www.cepal.org/SocInfo). In his 15 years as United Nations Economic Affairs Officer he performed hands-on technical assistance in the field of digital development to presidents, government experts, legislators, diplomats, NGOs, and companies in more than 20 countries. Policy makers from the highest political levels have officially recognized the impact of these projects. International perspectives are no mere theoretical work obligation to him, as he speaks five languages, worked in four continents, and has traveled to over 70 countries.